Weight
90g
Thickness
5.5mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
165x156
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Diode Pro
Butterfly Diode Pro is a 5-ply all-wood table tennis blade crafted for the modern defender. It delivers a masterful blend of control, stability, and surprising offensive capability. The moderate bounce and responsive feel support a full arsenal of defensive techniques, from heavy spin chops to precise blocks, while the design allows for sharp counter-attacks when the moment is right. Manufactured in Japan with Butterfly's renowned craftsmanship, it's a reliable tool for players who want to dictate the rally's rhythm, disrupt opponents, and seize offensive opportunities with confidence.
The blade is built with a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction (outer-inner-core-inner-outer). This traditional layup, while using undisclosed specific wood types, is engineered to provide the ideal balance of flexibility, stability, and dwell time required for controlled defensive play and responsive attacking.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Diode Pro operates with a moderate speed profile perfectly tuned for its defensive role. While manufacturer metrics suggest high reactivity, our testing shows its power is carefully balanced to prioritize dwell time and control for chopping. This speed allows for deep, spin-heavy defensive shots while retaining enough punch for confident counter-attacks and third-ball initiatives, making it a versatile tool rather than a pure power blade.
Control is where the Diode Pro truly shines. The all-wood construction and calculated flex provide an outstanding feel and extended ball contact, granting players precise command over placement for chops, blocks, and controlled attacks. This high level of predictability and touch makes it suitable for executing complex defensive maneuvers and building points with confidence, even for players refining their advanced techniques.
Diode Pro offers a direct yet forgiving medium feel. It grips the ball well on contact, providing clear feedback without being overly stiff or mushy. The sensation is one of controlled dwell, allowing players to feel the spin creation during chops and the ball's release on drives, striking a balance that supports both touch and power.
Diode Pro produces a medium-high throw angle, ideal for its defensive purpose. This trajectory helps in creating deep, arcing chops with heavy spin and also facilitates effective attacking shots with good clearance over the net, making both defensive and offensive play more consistent.
Dwell time is notably long, a hallmark of its defensive design. The wood composition and flex allow the ball to stay on the racket face longer, which is essential for generating heavy spin on chops and serves, and for absorbing pace when blocking. This extended contact provides a greater sense of control and timing.
The blade exhibits a responsive, medium-flex characteristic. It's not stiff or board-like; instead, it has a gentle give that aids in loading the ball with spin for chops and provides a controlled catapult effect for counter-attacks. This flex contributes significantly to its dwell time and overall feel.
Vibration is at a medium level, offering a tangible connection to each shot without being jarring. Players receive clear feedback on impact, which helps in adjusting stroke technique and sensing the quality of contact, all while maintaining a comfortable feel during extended play.
As a Butterfly blade manufactured in Japan, the Diode Pro meets the high standards expected from the brand. The fit and finish are excellent, with premium wood selection and meticulous construction ensuring consistent performance and durability. It feels solid and well-made in the hand, reflecting the quality craftsmanship synonymous with its origin.
Technology
Butterfly Diode Pro relies on a meticulously executed 5-ply all-wood construction, a classic design refined through Butterfly's expertise. This technology prioritizes a natural wood feel, optimal dwell time, and a responsive flex. By forgoing composite fibers, the design focuses on delivering the control and feedback essential for defensive mastery—enabling heavy spin generation on chops, precise blocking, and a balanced catapult for counter-attacks. Manufactured in Japan, it represents a commitment to quality materials and precision craftsmanship for consistent, high-level performance.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Diode V
Diode Pro is viewed as an evolution of the Diode V. Both are 5-ply all-wood defensive blades from Butterfly designed for chopping and blocking. TTSensei experts note that the Diode Pro generally offers slightly enhanced offensive potential and refined control compared to its predecessor, making it a compelling upgrade for defenders looking to add more attacking variety to their game.
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk
The Joo Se Hyuk is another legendary defensive blade from Butterfly, renowned for its superb control and dwell time. While both excel for choppers, players report the Diode Pro has a slightly different feel, often described with a touch more inherent offensive capability and a modern response. The Joo Se Hyuk remains a classic choice for pure defenders, while the Diode Pro appeals to those seeking a defensive foundation with easier access to counter-attacking power.